Genoa Pole

[Hardcrab]

Camp Cook,
Fixing it to the mast is also very simple.

As I recall, there is already a hole through the handle end of the paint pole.
Simply take a piece of 1/4" line and make a 12"/15" diameter loop from it going through the pole hole.
Then while in use, just place the loop with a turn or two on either of the existing mast cleats, depending on which "wing" you are on.

For example:
Mast boom to the stbd, mast rotated pointing to port, foresail to the port.
Stab the pole into the genny clew.
Place the loop on the PORT mast cleat, with the pole in FRONT of the mast.
Sheet in as required.
The sheet force will "lock" the pole/loop/cleat in place, and yet it is flexible if /when needed.
If the spike end were to somehow fall out of the clew, the pole is still fixed to the mast and it won't go overboard.

The loop method works very well as the factory cleats are just about the perfect height to keep the (at least for a genny) pole horizontal. Not sure about a jib.

I never tried to rely solely on the paint poles friction ring to keep full extension.
I drilled a 1/4" hole in the center pole part just ahead or the ring and I place a bolt with a loose nut to positively limit any collapse from the friction ring.
But, for all I know, the ring might be strong enough as is.

It really is that simple.
Save the other $180 for another mod.

[Hamin' X]

I use the loop trick on my X, but go around the entire mast, just above the goose neck. Never have to reset the handle end, just the end at the clew. This year I am going to fashion a snap on the clew end that will hook on the sheet. The picture below shows that the height is just about perfect.

[Highlander]

here's my
http://s78.beta.photobucket.com/user/ma ... 5.mp4.html

http://s78.beta.photobucket.com/user/ma ... 4.mp4.html

these poles r now on my the smaller one is a boat hook converted to do both functions the other is a whisker pole

J

[CampCook]

1/4 inch line loop at the mast. Great idea. Thanks
Dave

[Sea Wind]

I have seen some whisker poles that attach to the headsail’s clew ring and others to the jib sheet, is there a particular reason for the different attachment points?

[THE CUSCUS]

Attached to the sheet is best. You can depower in a hurry, and don't risk an extra hole in your sail. Also the pole is "locked" onto the sheet and won't fall out of the clew grommet (potentialy going overboard).

[Hamin' X]

Depends on whether or not the connection is hard and fast. You want to be able to cast off your jib/genny sheet in an emergency, such as an turn to avoid a hazard. If you clip around the sheet, it should run freely through it. If you use the clew, it should be able to blow off the pole..

~Rich